Currently reading: BMW mulls future of small front-driven combustion cars

Cars like the BMW 1 Series are difficult to electrify and not as lucrative as larger siblings

The next generation of small, front-wheel-drive BMW models is currently "under review", according to a source at the company.

Following the recent launch of the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, and next year’s launch of a new range of Mini models, the natively front-driven UKL architecture that underpins them will be 12 years old in 2027 and due for replacement.

Autocar understands that one issue for a platform like UKL in the European market is that, by 2027, most cars with internal combustion engines will probably have to be plug-in hybrids with a range of 40 miles or so.

Register for free to access this article
  • Instant access to all Autocar Business news
  • Regular email newsletters
See all benefits here